Abbot Point Operations (APO) is looking for the next crop of talented and motivated Greater Whitsundays region locals to carry on a 30-year training tradition at the Port of Abbot Point.

The port operations business is looking for three apprentices – two to undertake a Certificate III in Engineering – Fitting and Turning and one a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician – to join the local team of more than 385 employees and contractors in 2023.

APO General Manager Allan Brown said the annual apprenticeship program offered a world-class foundation for locals wanting to develop their skills and start a career path in a trade.

“The apprenticeship program is a strong part of both our commitment to maintaining a future workforce and our commitment to grow our local community,” Mr Brown said.

“What we look for in an APO apprentice is very much aligned with what we look for in all of our employees; a strong work ethic, a determination to learn, and a desire to be an active member of a team.

“In return we provide the opportunity to work with sophisticated systems and smart technology alongside some of the best people in the industry – all of which will set the right person up for a fulfilling career in a well paid, highly-skilled job that lasts a lifetime.”

First year Mechanical Apprentice Brittany Kane applied for APO’s 2022 apprenticeship intake as a mature aged (over 21 years of age) recruit looking for more variety in her day-to-day job.

“One day we’re working on the stacker-reclaimers, the next we’re out on the berths with the shiploaders. Very few days are ever the same and that one of the things I love most about my apprenticeship here,” she said.

“The other is that the people who train me are not just helpful, they all come from different backgrounds and bring different experiences and I find that really valuable as I learn.”

Second year Electrical Apprentice Tyler Warren described applying for an APO apprenticeship as “one of the best career choices I could have made.”

“I really enjoy figuring out the electrical side of things and it’s a lot of fun to work with big machines like we have here. The salary’s not bad either and there’s a pathway to go further in the job as well,” he said.

“The best advice I could give the applicants for 2023 is to be confident, but humble, and if you don’t know something don’t be afraid to ask questions – that’s the most important thing.”

For more information about APO’s 2023 apprenticeship program or to apply, visit www.abbotpointoperations.com.au/the-people/. Applications close 5pm on Tuesday, 31 May 2022.